Designated smoking areas recommended for town beaches

Barnstable beaches could be mostly smoke-free if the Barnstable Recreation Commission’s recommendation is followed.

TBP

Town manager to make final decision

Barnstable beaches could be mostly smoke-free if the Barnstable Recreation Commission’s recommendation is followed.

At its Nov. 3 meeting the commission unanimously voted to make town beaches smoke free, except for designated smoking areas at each beach under the recreation division’s control.

The recommendation forwarded to Town Manager John Klimm calls for a May 15 to Sept. 15 smoking ban in all but designated areas. The regulation would be enforced by recreation staff already at the beaches. Proper signage is also seen as a necessary component for compliance.

Commission Chairman Clyde Takala said that health aspects of a ban were discussed, but based on correspondence and comments received, litter was a more immediate concern.

In its recommendation to the town manager, the commission wrote, “The Recreation Commission believes the smoking ban will result in cleaner beaches (less litter) for use by our residents and visitors.”

The commission had between 15 and 20 people at its Nov. 3 meeting, Takala said, with both pro and con positions represented.

The commission first voted to recommend a ban in August, but the town manager asked that a public hearing be conducted. The commission held a hearing on the proposal at its Oct. 6 meeting. Most of those attending spoke in favor, though some dissent was voiced.

“We appreciate the input from the people,” Takala said. “We're here trying to do what the people want.”

Not included among the beaches is Bodfish Park, the public beach area of Sandy Neck. The Sandy Neck Board will address the issue at an upcoming meeting.

At this point, a smoking ban for long stretch of beach used by off-road vehicle is not among the considerations.